CompletedNot Applicable

Acute Effect of Topical Menthol on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Denmark10 participantsStarted 2012-12

Plain-language summary

Topical menthol gels are classified 'topical analgesics' and are used to relieve pain of the musculoskeletal system. However, double-blind randomized controlled trials are lacking. Here the investigators examine - in a double-blind randomized controlled cross-over trial - the acute effect of topical menthol (Biofreeze) and placebo (gel with a menthol scent) on pain symptoms in slaughterhouse workers with symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years – 67 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * positive Phalen test * positive Tinel test * nocturnal hand/wrist pain * pain intensity of at least 4 in the hand/wrist * the pain should have lasted at least 3 months Exclusion Criteria: * pregnancy * life-threatening disease

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Change in arm/hand pain intensity (scale 0-10) during work

Timeframe: change from before to after (average of 1,2 and 3 hours after) application of the gel

Trial details

NCT IDNCT01716767

SponsorNational Research Centre for the Working Environment, Denmark

Sponsor typeOTHER_GOV

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2013-01

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Carpal Tunnel Syndrome trials